Garry James Adams

Garry James Adams, 87, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on June 2, 2019 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 6th, 2019 at 1st Congregational United Church of Christ with Rev. Katrina Richardson officiating. Burial will follow in Dubuque Memorial Gardens with full military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6.  Family and friends may also gather after 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the church until time of service. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 5th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Garry was born on April 15, 1932 in Blue River, Wisconsin; the son of Paul and Jessie (Bartels) Adams. He served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1954.

He married Illa Klett on March 26, 1988 at 1st Congregational United Church of Christ and they shared 31 years together.  

After returning from the service he attended Telegraphy School and later worked for the Milwaukee Railroad and Soo Line Railroad. He was a member of the Transportation Communications Union, 1st Congregational United Church of Christ and the Railroad Retirees.

Garry enjoyed being outdoors and doing yard work. He was an avid baseball player, playing for many leagues throughout his life until his was in his 50’s.

Garry is survived by his wife Illa; three children Christine Adams, Michelle Donath and Michael Adams. Four grandchildren, Aryelle (Cody) Decker, Brandon Adams, Carson Donath and Micaela McIntosh; one great grandchild Silas Decker with one on the way; and his sister Irma Fricke.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son Jeff Sear; siblings Theron Adams, Ivan Adams and Joy Dyer.

Memorials may be given to 1st Congregational United Church of Christ or Key West Fire & EMS Department.

The family would like to thank Dr. Matthew Kirkendall and his nurse Kate for all their wonderful care and kindness they gave to Garry.

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